Overnight Shelter Open for those Without Power

COLUMBIA - Power outages in Boone County caused by Tuesday's winter storm may continue throughout the night. Customers without power are welcome at an overnight shelter opening in Columbia at 8:00 p.m. Tuesday evening at Broadway Christian Church located at 2601 West Broadway.

As of Wednesday morning, volunteers have only assisted one Ashland woman with her power was out. She arrived at the facility before midnight on Tuesday to have a warm place to stay overnight.

The mid-Missouri Chapter of the American Red Cross is working with church members to open the shelter during the overnight hours. Cots, blankets, and pillows will be available. The shelter will have limited food available. Those with special dietary considerations should consider their needs and pack accordingly.

American Red Cross volunteer, Tom Shands said they are not surprised that only one person showed up to the shelter.

"The reason we only have one person here tonight, because in a rural community setting like we have here in central Missouri, friends and neighbors, relatives," said Shands. "They take care of each other."

Those who wish to use the shelter can report directly to the shelter and don't need to call and register.

When reporting to the shelter, make sure you bring any personal items you will need overnight. For example, medications, diapers, formula, a change of clothing, cell phone, etc.

The facility will stay open as long as emergency management thinks assistance is needed by people in the community.